{"id":2948,"date":"2021-05-18T11:47:00","date_gmt":"2021-05-18T16:47:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/collincountyent.com\/?p=2948"},"modified":"2024-04-12T11:53:59","modified_gmt":"2024-04-12T16:53:59","slug":"what-happens-if-you-let-a-sinus-infection-go-untreated","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/collincountyent.com\/what-happens-if-you-let-a-sinus-infection-go-untreated\/","title":{"rendered":"What Happens If You Let A Sinus Infection Go Untreated?"},"content":{"rendered":"
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A sinus infection might start with annoying, inconvenient symptoms: congestion, discomfort, and sinus pressure. But don\u2019t assume these symptoms will go away on their own.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If left untreated, sinus infections can result in ongoing pain and discomfort that lasts for months. Sometimes, an untreated sinus infection can lead to serious complications \u2013 that could have been prevented with early interventions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The key to avoiding severe complications from an untreated sinus infection is to talk to an ENT as soon as possible. When you can see that the symptoms are lingering, then it might be time to book an appointment for a\u00a0diagnosis and treatment plan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Initial Stages of a Sinus Infection<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

In most situations, a sinus infection is a secondary infection that occurs after another illness or health concern. For example, you might have a head cold that develops into a sinus infection because of the congestion. Or, chronic allergies can cause conditions that result in sinus infections.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When a sinus infection occurs, it means that there is swelling, inflammation, and infection in the sinus areas. Typically, sinuses are open cavities filled with air. When drainage is blocked<\/a>, then an infection can occur.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the earliest stages of a sinus infection, you\u2019ll likely feel discomfort and pressure in the sinus areas. It\u2019s common to have congestion, which could lead to a blocked sinus \u2013 making it hard to breathe through one side of your nose.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As the symptoms progress, the pain intensifies. An untreated sinus infection can disrupt every area of your life, making it hard to get through the day because of the pressure and pain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Types of Sinus Infections<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

During your visit with an ENT, it\u2019s crucial to identify the potential causes of your sinus infections. Identifying the root of your health concerns helps the doctor design an optimal treatment plan to alleviate your pain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s common for sinus infections to be caused by a viral infection, which means that you can use at-home care for a few days. The symptoms will usually clear up in a week to 10 days, with over-the-counter remedies to help you stay comfortable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Blocked, congested sinuses can also be the perfect breeding ground for the growth of bacteria. For example, there are times when it starts as a viral infection, then develops into a bacterial sinus infection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Another potential cause of sinus discomfort is a fungal infection. Treatment for this type of condition may require different kinds of medication or surgery to clear up the infection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Keep in mind that certain health conditions might contribute to the risk of sinus infections but don\u2019t cause the infections directly:<\/p>\n\n\n\n